Kim Cattrall forced to withdraw from Linda

It has been announced that Kim Cattrall has been forced to withdraw from the Royal Court Theatre's upcoming production of Linda by Penelope Skinner, because of an unspecified illness. She will be replaced in the role by Noma Dumezweni.

The production, which was set to begin previews on 25 November 2015, will now open for previews on 26 November, with the press night remaining on 1 December 2015 at the Sloane Square venue. The production is currently booking to 9 January 2016.

In a press statement, the Sex and the City star said:

"With great sadness and at the advice of my doctors, I will not be able to continue with the Royal Court's production of Linda. I appreciate all the support I have received from the theatre and cannot thank them enough for allowing me to put my health first."

The artistic director of the Royal Court Theatre , Vicky Featherstone also stated:

"We are all deeply sorry that Kim is unable to continue with the production and she has our warmest wishes. We are extremely grateful and also thrilled that Noma Dumezweni, one of our most brilliant actors, has agreed to take on this challenge at such short notice. We are delighted that in spite of these difficulties Penelope Skinner's important play can open to our audiences with minimal disruption."

Linda concerns Linda Wilde who has dedicated her life to changing the world. She's won awards for her efforts, at the same time as working hard to become an inspiring mother, and an independent, loving wife. Now, at 55, she seems to have it all. But  Linda isn't satisfied. She's a woman in her prime and she's embarking on her most ambitious plan to date. Beneath the surface, the cracks are starting to show.

The production is directed by Michael Longhurst and features set design by Es Devlin, lighting design by Lee Curran, costume by Alex Lowde and movement by Imogen Knight.

Noma Dumezweni's previous credits include 'Carmen Disruption' (Almeida), 'The Bogus Woman' (The Red Room, Traverse and Bush theatres), 'President of an Empty Room' and 'The Hour We Knew Nothing of Each Other' (National). She was awarded an Olivier Award for Best Performance in a Supporting Role for her role in 'A Raisin in the Sun' at the Young Vic.

Tickets for the London production are now on sale.